HomeMy Public PortalAbout11-November 10, 2021 RCMCITY OF OPA-LOCKA
"The Great City"
CLERK'S ACTION SUMMARY MINUTES
REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING
November 10, 2021
7:00 P.M.
1. CALL TO ORDER:
Mayor Pigatt called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m. on Wednesday, November 10, 2021
at Sherbondy Village, 215 Perviz Avenue, Opa-locka, Florida.
2. ROLL CALL:
The following members of the City Commission were present: Commissioner Sherelean
Bass, Commissioner Chris Davis, Commissioner John H. Taylor Jr., and Mayor Matthew
A. Pigatt. Also, in attendance were: City Manager John E. Pate, City Attorney Burnadette
Norris -Weeks, Assistant City Attorney Candice Cobb and City Clerk Joanna Flores.
3. INVOCATION:
The Invocation was delivered by Commissioner Taylor.
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited in unison.
5. AWARDS/PROCLAMATIONS/ACKNOWLEDGMENTS:
Mayor Pigatt presented certificates to 6 adoptive families of Opa-locks in honor of National
Adoption Month.
6. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA AND PULL LIST (deferrals and deletions):
Clerk Flores advised the Commission that Agenda Item 13-3 was replaced by a substitute
resolution, because there was a correction in dollar amount from $560,000 to $500,000.
It was moved by Commissioner Davis, seconded by Commissioner Taylor to approve the
consent agenda.
The motion to approve the Consent Agenda passed by a 4-0 vote.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — November 10, 2021 1
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Not Present
Commissioner Bass Yes
Mayor Pigatt Yes
7. APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
It was moved by Commissioner Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Davis to approve the
Consent Agenda.
City Clerk Joanna Flores advised the Commission of the request to amend the agenda to
include Agenda Item 14-1 and read the proposed item into the record.
14-1: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, ACCEPTING THE OPA-LOCKA POLICE
DEPARTMENT FEASIBILITY STUDY ROM SUMMARY PROVIDED BY
BEA ARCHITECTS, INC.; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO
ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH BEA ARCHITECTS, INC. FOR
CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL ARCHITECTURAL AND
ENGINEERING PROFESSIONAL SERVICES TO DEMOLISH AND
REBUILD THE FORMER CITY POLICE STATION AT 2495 ALI BABA
AVENUE, WITHIN THE CITY, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED
SEVEN HUNDRED SEVENTY-SIX THOUSAND, ONE HUNDRED
FORTY-EIGHT DOLLARS AND TWENTY CENTS ($776,148.20), WITH
AN ADDITIONAL TEN PERCENT CONTINGENCY BUDGET OF
SEVENTY-SEVEN THOUSAND, SIX HUNDRED FOURTEEN DOLLARS
AND EIGHTY-TWO CENTS ($77,614.82); PROVIDING FOR
INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE
DATE. Sponsored by City Manager
Mayor Pigatt asked City Manager Pate to state the emergency nature of add on Item 14-1.
City Manager Pate stated that Item 14-1 is being requested to be added to the Agenda based
on the health, welfare and safety provision of the City's Code, adding that it needs to be
done in a timely manner to ensure that proper grant funding is used and to ensure that the
mission of the Opa-locka Police Department moves forward based on the will of the
Commission and residents.
It was moved by Commissioner Bass to add Item 14-1 to the Agenda, and the motion was
seconded by Commissioner Taylor.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — November 10, 2021 2
There being no discussion, the motion to add Item 14-1 to the Agenda, passed by a 4-0
vote.
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Not Present
Mayor Pigatt Yes
It was moved by Commissioner Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Bass to approve the
Agenda.
There being no discussion, the motion to approve the Agenda passed by a 4-0 vote.
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Not Present
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Mayor Pigatt Yes
8. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Regular Commission Meeting — September 22, 2021
It was moved by Commissioner Bass, seconded by Taylor to approve the minutes of the
Regular Commission Meeting — September 22, 2021.
There being no discussion, the motion to approve the minutes passed by a 4-0 vote.
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Not Present
Mayor Pigatt Yes
Regular Commission Meeting — October 13, 2021
It was moved by Commissioner Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Davis to approve the
minutes of the Regular Commission Meeting — October 13, 2021.
There being no discussion, the motion to approve the minutes passed by a 4-0 vote.
Commissioner Davis Yes
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — November 10, 2021 3
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Not Present
Commissioner Bass Yes
Mayor Pigatt Yes
9. DISTRICT ONE / DISTRICT TWO - COUNTY COMMISSIONER REPORT:
There was none.
10. PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS:
There were none.
11. CITIZENS' FORUM:
(Opportunity for discussion of any concerns — please limit to 3 minutes)
City Clerk Joanna Flores announced the protocol for public participation at City
Commission meetings. The City Clerk stated that one person had registered to address the
Commission virtually, but they were not connected to the meeting via Zoom.
Mayor Pigatt opened the Citizens' Forum.
Ms. Dorothy Johnson of 13724 NW 22nd Place stated that she had some information she
would leave with the City Clerk to be shared with the City Manager and whoever can help
with recruitment for the Opa-locka Community Action Committee that has been around
since the 70s. Ms. Johnson informed the Commission that she has been appointed by
Miami -Dade Board of County Commissioners Vice Chair Oliver Gilbert, to represent
County Commission District 1 on the Community Action & Human Services Board,
expressing that she is glad to work between Opa-locka and Miami Gardens and will be
bringing more information to help with strategies. She stated that the contact person from
the County that she had provided to City Manager Pate, Mr. Corey Jones had passed away,
but she said that she is sure they will have a replacement. Ms. Johnson thanked
Commissioner Bass for the Bibles Up Guns Down event, stating that it was great, and just
needed more children there. She said that the Booster Club's Halloween celebration was
outstanding. Ms. Johnson reported that she saw the State of Florida cleaning up State Road
9, as well as inmates cleaning in the City last week. She thanked Vice Chair Gilbert for
bringing beautification to the City. Sharing that she had the opportunity to participate in
the Wellsprings Community Complex presentation, Ms. Johnson said it was a great project
that she hopes moves forward. Recalling that she learned that the Commission must read
everything they get, a lesson she said was passed onto her from Congresswoman Meeks
who she said was her mentor, Ms. Johnson shared that it took her 5 hours to look at videos
from back in 18 and learned that a lot of directives are given to City Staff but there is no
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — November 10, 2021 4
motion. Ms. Johnson urged the Commission to put their workshops into legislation because
she said that in her opinion having been a former Commissioner, a lot of things are slipping
through the cracks.
Mayor Pigatt asked his colleagues on the Commission if they had any responses to provide
as part of Citizens' Forum.
There were no responses from the Commission.
Note: This portion of the minutes is transcribed in verbatim.
Mayor Pigatt: Accept this as my resignation from the position of Mayor in the City of Opa-
locka; I will not be a figurehead for corruption. I'm going to those with the real power in
this system, the people. I'm not resigning because this job is too big; I'm resigning because
I'm in the wrong position to affect change in my City and cities like this across America. I
naively thought that a system that is broken could be fixed from within by reformers who,
if they just care deeply enough, could root out things like cronyism, shadow deals and
government officials who turn a blind eye toward corruption, lest their own deeds be
brought into the light. I was wrong.
I left home 17 years ago with the commitment to become a better person for my family and
a community that saved my life. I came back home 10 years ago and chose to raise my
family here in Opa-locka because it was the heart of my community. My journey through
this government began as an intern in the Planning & Community Development
Department. I learned about the history of this community, its beauty, its potential and its
challenges. I learned firsthand how the employees of this city were treated by the
leadership and how they were taking advantage of the people, by not doing their job to
serve the people. My first time challenging this government was when I spoke out against
the firing of the City Manager and the corruption on the dais back in 2014. That led me to
getting code enforcement violations on my house, being threatened by the police multiple
times and being accosted by so-called shadow mayors and community advocates right here
in this room, at that podium, while those on the dais and in the room looked on in silence.
When I ran for office, the tagline was a new generation of leadership. The people voted to
replace the only elected official indicted after the FBI raids in this City. We campaigned
around town repeating the same words to everyone. It's time to put an end to this
corruption and hold this government accountable. We need to handle the basics, get our
finances in order, make sure our trash is picked up on time, our water bills are accurate,
the streets get fixed, and the Police and Code Enforcement don't pick and choose who they
are harassing. The people overwhelmingly voted for that twice. Since being elected I've
been laser focused on my commitment to the people. We have a new generation of
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — November 10, 2021 5
leadership in the City of Opa-locka, all new elected officials, a new City Manager and a
new City Attorney. We replaced our residential trash company with one that picks up our
garbage on time and efficiently. We replaced 98% of our water meters across the City and
have a third party making sure the bills are accurate. We fixed 18 out of 19 pump stations
and developed a stormwater master plan to address flooding across the City. We brought
in a Financial Consultant, a Budget Director and did several evaluations of our Finance
Department, completed 5 audits, submitted a 5 -year recovery plan, and worked well with
the State Financial Oversight Board and the Auditor General's Office. We paved over 20
miles of streets including Cairo Lane, 139th and 141st. We fixed over 90% of the potholes
throughout the City, the largest road servicing and re -milling project in decades; and we
are putting sidewalks into the neighborhoods. We brought in the Miami -Dade County
Police Department to do an assessment of our Police. We got a new Police Chief
Command Staff, new Officers, new vehicles, new equipment and a substation. Yet, despite
all of these accomplishments in this position as Mayor, I could not stop the corruption.
I naively thought that I could help reform this City from the inside, by being the change I
wish to see in this community and bringing in a new generation of leadership. During my
time here I withstood threats on my life, my family, the loss of my job, character
assassinations and political intrigue more scandalous than a show "Scandal ". What I've
experienced and witnessed with my own eyes during this journey through this government;
let me just say this for now, those who stand up for what is right, do not last long in this
system. The forces of corruption are too strong for one person to reform. The reformers
within the government are outnumbered by those who want to compromise, maintain the
status quo and promote themselves over the people. However, the people outnumber the
government. The people can hold this government accountable, and I want to thank the
people who elected and supported me on this journey through the inside of this system. I
got you.
I'm going to take these insights and experiences back to the people. Everything will be
shared when it will do the most good. I have a family I need to take care of and be there
for. I started this mission as a young single man; now I'm a proud husband and father.
My wife, my son, and my two daughters need their "Baboo" and I'm going to take some
time for my family and then the people will learn everything including how to hold their
government accountable and change this system.
Now, there are of course some here in this very room and some sitting right here on this
dais who are breathing a sigh of relief believing that I'm finally going away. As always,
they cannot be more incorrect in their hopes and pride. As I stated at the very beginning
of this statement, I am not abandoning the people's mission to dislodge the corrupt, the
power hungry and the flat out shady from this City and others. When the time is right,
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — November 10, 2021 6
you'll be hearing more what form this will take and how those who are like-minded can get
involved. For those of you who stand in opposition, to those who operate in the shadows
who actually believe you hold power beyond the people, who put themselves above service,
to the corrupt, the cronies, the narcissists, the deceivers and the liars, I'm not only giving
my notice; I and those who join me are putting you on notice. On behalf of all those who
want better for their communities, thank you. Thank you all for the insights and
experiences. We will hold government accountable to the people.
This concludes the verbatim portion of these minutes.
Mayor Pigatt left the meeting.
Commissioner Bass asked City Attorney Norris -Weeks how the Commission should
proceed for the current meeting.
City Attorney Norris -Weeks stated that because there was a quorum, the meeting can
continue. The City Attorney noted that the Vice Mayor was not present and said that the
Commission can decide who would be the presider of the meeting.
Commissioner Taylor asked for clarification whether the meeting can or cannot continue.
City Attorney Norris -Weeks confirmed that because there was a quorum of members of
the Commission present, they can continue the meeting.
Commissioner Taylor asked if the Commission needed to vote for a Chair for the current
meeting.
City Attorney Norris -Weeks confirmed that Commissioner Taylor was correct in his
understanding that the Commission needed to vote for a Chair.
Commissioner Taylor asked who calls for the vote for the Commission Chair for the current
meeting.
Commissioner Davis stated that he thinks the Commission needs to put a motion on the
floor.
City Attorney Norris -Weeks confirmed that one of the members of the Commission can
put a motion on the floor, to appoint a Chair for the current Commission Meeting.
It was moved by Commissioner Davis to appoint himself as Chair of the current
Commission Meeting, and the motion was seconded by Commissioner Taylor.
There being no discussion, the motion to appoint Commissioner Davis as Chair of the
current Commission Meeting passed by a 3-0 voice vote.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — November 10, 2021 7
Commissioner Davis Yes
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Not Present
Commissioner Bass Yes
Mayor Pigatt Not Present
12. ACTION ITEMS (items from consent agenda pull list):
There were none.
13. ADMINISTRATION:
CONSENT AGENDA:
1. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, ACCEPTING THE PROPOSAL OF CALVIN,
GIORDANO & ASSOCIATES, INC. FOR THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
AMENDMENT EVALUATION AND APPRAISAL REPORT (EAR)
PURSUANT TO RFQ NO. 21-0727100 AND FURTHER AUTHORIZING
THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT FOR THE
SAME, IN A FORM ACCEPTABLE TO THE CITY ATTORNEY;
PROVIDING FOR ADOPTION OF REPRESENTATIONS; PROVIDING
FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City Manager
2. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER
INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH 300 ENGINEERING GROUP, P.A. FOR
CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL ARCHITECTURAL AND
ENGINEERING CONSULTING SERVICES FOR ENGINEERING AND
DESIGN SERVICES FOR THE CITY'S SANITARY SEWER GRAVITY
MAIN RELOCATION ALONG 133RD STREET; PROVIDING FOR
INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE
DATE. Sponsored by City Manager
3. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ACCEPT
GRANT FUNDING FROM THE MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT, IN
THE AMOUNT OF FIVE HUNDRED SIXTY THOUSAND DOLLARS
($560,000), FOR ROADWAY AND DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENTS
RELATED TO NW 131ST STREET (BETWEEN NW 31ST AND NW 32ND
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — November 10, 2021 8
AVENUES); FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO
EXECUTE THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT
CONTRACT BETWEEN MIAMI-DADE COUNTY AND THE CITY OF
OPA-LOCKA; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF RECITALS;
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City Manager
4. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, ADOPTING THE CITY OF OPA-LOCKA'S 2022
LEGISLATIVE PRIORITY LIST, ATTACHED HERETO AS EXHIBIT
"A"; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO TAKE NECESSARY
ACTION TO CARRY OUT THE AIMS OF THIS RESOLUTION;
PROVIDING INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City Manager
5. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ACCEPT
FUNDS, IN AN AMOUNT OF ONE HUNDRED THOUSAND, EIGHT
HUNDRED THREE DOLLARS AND SEVENTY-FIVE CENTS
($100,803.75), FROM BIDERA LLC, ON BEHALF OF THE CITY, AS A
RESULT OF THE CITY SURPLUS AUCTION; PROVIDING FOR
INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE
DATE. Sponsored by City Manager
6. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO
APPROVE A CHANGE ORDER REQUEST FOR EAC CONSULTING,
INC. TO CONDUCT ADDITIONAL FLOW MEASUREMENTS AT LIFT
STATIONS 4, 5 AND 7 AND CONDUCT AN ADDITIONAL SMOKE TEST
OF THE CITY'S EXISTING GRAVITY SEWER MAINS, IN AN AMOUNT
NOT TO EXCEED TWENTY-SIX THOUSAND TWENTY-FIVE
DOLLARS ($26,025.00); PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF
RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City
Manager
Vote taken on Consent Agenda items can be viewed under Agenda Item 6 — Approval of
the Consent Agenda.
14. NEW ITEMS:
1. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, ACCEPTING THE OPA-LOCKA POLICE
DEPARTMENT FEASIBILITY STUDY ROM SUMMARY PROVIDED BY
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — November 10, 2021 9
BEA ARCHITECTS, INC.; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO
ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH BEA ARCHITECTS, INC. FOR
CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL ARCHITECTURAL AND
ENGINEERING PROFESSIONAL SERVICES TO DEMOLISH AND
REBUILD THE FORMER CITY POLICE STATION AT 2495 ALI BABA
AVENUE, WITHIN THE CITY, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED
SEVEN HUNDRED SEVENTY-SIX THOUSAND, ONE HUNDRED
FORTY-EIGHT DOLLARS AND TWENTY CENTS ($776,148.20), WITH
AN ADDITIONAL TEN PERCENT CONTINGENCY BUDGET OF
SEVENTY-SEVEN THOUSAND, SIX HUNDRED FOURTEEN DOLLARS
AND EIGHTY-TWO CENTS ($77,614.82); PROVIDING FOR
INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE
DATE. Sponsored by City Manager
The above resolution was read by Assistant City Attorney Candice Cobb.
Commissioner Davis asked City Manager Pate to introduce Agenda Item 14-1.
City Manager Pate asked Public Works Director Airia Austin to introduce Agenda Item
14-1.
Public Works Director Airia Austin informed the Commission that the resolution in
Agenda Item 14-1 proposes a comprehensive study to develop demolition plans for the
Police Station, to perform necessary environmental work including the removal of
underground storage tanks before the facility is demolished, in addition to the development
of a criteria document to put the project for the construction of a new Police Station out to
bid.
Commissioner Davis asked City Manager Pate if he had anything to add to the introduction
of Agenda Item 14-1.
City Manager Pate stated that based on the study, the most feasible option is the proposal
included in Agenda Item 14-1 to use the $1.1 million from the State Legislature for the
demolition of the old Police Station building, while dealing with environmental impacts
and to develop plans for a new Police Department. The City Manager noted that this would
be phase 1 of the project providing time to request more funding from the Legislature.
Commissioner Davis stated that he is glad to see the establishment of a new location for
the Police Department within the community and that he is happy to see that it is going
beyond just a regular demolition of the property, to include the plan to develop a new Police
Station.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — November 10, 2021 10
Commissioner Taylor stated that he likes the idea proposed by Agenda Item 14-1 and asked
if the old Police Station is going to be demolished and then a plan to rebuild it is going to
be done.
City Manager Pate stated that the proposal in Agenda Item 14-1 goes all the way to the
point of preparing the site for new construction including environmental rehab.
Commissioner Taylor asked if a timeline had been established for when the Police Station
will be rebuilt.
City Manager Pate stated that the rebuilding of the Police Station is dependent on funding.
The City Manager informed the Commission that because the City is in a fmancial
emergency, bonding is not an option because the State of Florida would have to agree for
the City to enter into any new debt. He said that more funding for the project will be
solicited through the City's State Senator and State Representative from the State
Legislature.
It was moved by Commissioner Davis, seconded by Commissioner Bass to discuss Agenda
Item 14-1.
There being no additional discussion, the resolution proposed by Agenda Item 14-1 passed
by a 3-0 vote.
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Not Present
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Mayor Pigatt Not Present
15. PLANNING & ZONING:
A. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
There were none.
B. APPEALS:
There were none.
16. ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS/PUBLIC HEARINGS:
A. FIRST READING ORDINANCE(S)/PUBLIC HEARING(S):
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — November 10, 2021 11
1. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE ANNUAL ADOPTED
GENERAL, PROPRIETARY AND SPECIAL REVENUE FUNDS
BUDGETS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER
1, 2020 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2021, ADJUSTING
REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES AS REFLECTED IN EXHIBIT
"A"; PROVIDING FOR THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS
ESTABLISHED BY THE BUDGET; AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO TAKE CERTAIN ACTIONS; PROVIDING FOR
APPROPRIATION OF ALL BUDGETS AND EXPENDITURES;
PROVIDING FOR FEES CONSISTENT WITH APPROPRIATIONS
AND AMENDMENT; PROVIDING FOR INCORPORATION OF
RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT AND REPEALER;
PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by City Manager
The above resolution was read by Assistant City Attorney Candice Cobb.
Commissioner Davis opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-A-1.
There being no members of the public to address the Commission, Commissioner
Davis closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-A-1.
It was moved by Commissioner Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Bass to discuss
Agenda Item 16-A-1.
Commissioner Davis asked City Manager Pate to introduce Agenda Item 16-A-1.
City Manager Pate asked Budget Administrator Anathan to introduce Agenda Item
16-A-1.
Budget Administrator Anathan pointed out that the Commission has 2 budget
amendments before them on their meeting Agenda, including the second reading
for Budget Amendment #4 in addition to the first reading for Budget Amendment
#5, and that if bills keep coming in related to the prior year's goods and services,
they could necessitate further budget amendments. Mr. Anathan informed the
Commission that Budget Amendment #5 includes $361,000 to address the
improvements that have been done on Cairo Lane, which he reminded the
Commission, had been previously approved with the understanding that it would
be brought before them as a budget amendment. He also stated that the pledged
revenues for the debt service fund are coming in higher than they were budgeted,
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — November 10, 2021 12
which become surplus, allowing the transfer of about $107,000 into the general
fund.
Commissioner Davis said that he didn't see the backup documentation including
the more detailed breakdown of the budget amendment within his legislative
package.
Budget Administrator Anathan stated that the information Commissioner Davis
was requesting was an attachment to the Agenda.
City Clerk Flores informed Commissioner Davis that the exhibit, including the
information that Commissioner Davis was requesting, starts on page 712 of the
Agenda packet.
Budget Administrator Anathan assured the Commission that the budget amendment
proposed by Agenda Item 16-A-1 is very simple and most of it is just housekeeping
with minor changes.
There being no additional discussion, the ordinance proposed in Agenda Item 16-
A-1 passed first reading by a 3-0 vote.
Vice Mayor Williams Not Present
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Mayor Pigatt Not Present
2. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, DESIGNATING CURTISS DRIVE FROM
SULTAN AVENUE TO HAREM AVENUE AS COMMISSIONER
ALVIN BURL DRIVE; PROVIDING FOR A REPEALER,
SEVERABILITY AND EFFECTIVE DATE. Sponsored by
Commissioner Bass
The above resolution was read by Assistant City Attorney Candice Cobb.
Commissioner Davis opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-A-2.
Ms. Dorothy Johnson of 13724 NW 22nd Place stated that the legislation proposed
in Agenda Item 16-A-2 is very worthwhile and deserved. Ms. Johnson said that
since her involvement in 1997, she doesn't know of a sitting Commissioner dying
while serving. She asked the Commission to involve the community in the
planning, because Commissioner Burke was loved by the people. Ms. Johnson
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — November 10, 2021 13
concluded by offering kudos to the sponsor and said that the heartfelt sympathy for
his service from the other members of the Commission, is very much needed.
Mr. Brian Dennis of 2140 York Street echoed the sentiments expressed by Ms.
Johnson, stating that Commissioner Burke was beloved. Mr. Dennis shared that he
knows for a fact that he was beloved because Commissioner Burke talked him into
giving up his entire paycheck for some kids because of his legacy. He said that he
agrees that the community should be involved, and he added that the family should
be involved. Mr. Dennis concluded by recalling that Commissioner Burke put a lot
of time into what he did, especially with the Booster Club and thanked the
Commission for putting Item 16-A-2 on the agenda.
There being no additional members of the public to address the Commission,
Commissioner Davis closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-A-2.
It was moved by Commissioner Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Bass to discuss
Agenda Item 16-A-2.
Commissioner Taylor stated that like the citizens said, it's well deserved. The
Commissioner added that the Commission was sad to see their colleague
Commissioner Burke go and acknowledged that the proposed street naming doesn't
do justice to his life because he was such a great man in the City. He concluded by
saying that he was happy that Commissioner Bass sponsored Agenda Item 16-A-2,
for the Commission to show how much they appreciate and love Commissioner
Burke.
Commissioner Davis thanked Commissioner Taylor and said that he shared his
sentiments. The Commissioner recalled having had the chance to campaign with
Commissioner Burke in 2018, and he shared that he got to know Commissioner
Burke better over the years as a colleague. He acknowledged that Commissioner
Burke was well loved in the community and was always a fighter for the
community. Commissioner Davis thanked Commissioner Bass for leading the
charge and sponsoring the ordinance proposed by Agenda Item 16-A-2, and said he
thinks it is great that the Commission could memorialize Commissioner Burke in
this special way.
Commissioner Bass thanked her colleagues for their support. The Commissioner
recalled having met Commissioner Burke in 2018, stating that it was a roller coaster
ride that she would live again. She shared that she thought it would befit
Commissioner Burke to have the Commission name Curtiss Drive after him.
Commissioner Bass added that she found out that Commissioner Burke's first
address in the City of Opa-locka was on Curtiss Drive, which is why that street is
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — November 10, 2021 14
being proposed to be renamed, and not Jann Avenue where his family currently
resides. She concluded by thanking her Commission colleagues for their support
and said that she is looking forward to the second reading of the ordinance.
There being no additional discussion, the ordinance proposed in Agenda Item 16-
A-2 passed first reading by a 3-0 vote.
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Not Present
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Mayor Pigatt Not Present
B. SECOND READING ORDINANCE(S)/PUBLIC HEARING(S):
1. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA, APPROVING A REQUEST FROM AMDI
USA, INC. TO CLOSE, VACATE AND ABANDON A PORTION OF
NW 130TH STREET BETWEEN NW 30TH AVENUE AND NW
30TH COURT AND A PORTION OF NW 30TH COURT BETWEEN
NW 130TH STREET AND NW 131ST STREET FOR THE
OPERATION OF A CONCRETE BATCHING PLANT AND
FINISHED CONCRETE PRODUCTION COMPANY FACILITY ON
THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 13050 NW 30TH AVENUE AND
IDENTIFIED BY FOLIOS 08-2128-002- 0020, 08-2128-002-0030, 08-
2128-002-0040, 08-2128-002-0050, 08-2128-002-0060, 08-2128-002-
0090, 08-2128-004-0380, AND 08-2128- 004-0330, IN THE I-2 ZONING
DISTRICT; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (first
reading/public hearing on September 22, 2021). Sponsored by City
Manager
The above resolution was read by Assistant City Attorney Candice Cobb.
Commissioner Davis opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-B-1.
Ms. Hope Calhoun introduced herself as a representative for the property owner requesting
the vacation of the right of way proposed by Agenda Item 16-B-1. Ms. Calhoun pointed
out that while this was the second reading of the ordinance, it was the third time making
the request because the City's ordinance requires that they provide payment for the
vacation of the right-of-way and that the Commission has their most recent offer which she
said is consistent with the appraisal. She stated that they have come a long way, as
suggested and requested by the Commission, and she expressed her hope that it makes
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — November 10, 2021 15
everyone more comfortable with what they are seeking. Ms. Calhoun recalled that the
Commission already approved their applications for the site plan and development
agreement, and she concluded by offering to answer any questions or go over their
presentation again.
It was moved by Commissioner Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Bass to discuss
Agenda Item 16-B-1.
City Manager Pate stated that after months of deliberation, he fully supports the item
because he believes the petitioner has made a full faith effort to answer the Commission's
questions and bring their offer up to a level that is suitable to him.
Commissioner Davis said that the Commission's discussion at the last meeting was
surrounding the offer amount which he remembered was $94,000, recalling that he and his
colleagues were reluctant to move on the item with such a low -ball offer. The
Commissioner noted that the current offer had been increased to $306,963 as included in
the official letter stating that amount.
Commissioner Bass shared that she had the opportunity to visit the property with Planning
& Community Development Director Gregory Gay and see what they were explaining to
the Commission. The Commissioner said that she thinks it is in the best interest of the City
to close it out.
There being no additional discussion, the ordinance proposed in Agenda Item 16-B-1
passed by a 3-0 vote.
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Not Present
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Mayor Pigatt Not Present
2. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA,
ESTABLISHING A CHARTER REVIEW BOARD FOR THE CITY OF
OPA-LOCKA, FLORIDA; PROVIDING FOR METHOD OF
APPOINTMENT AND COMPOSITION OF THE BOARD;
ESTABLISHING MEMBERSHIP, TERMS, DUTIES AND
RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE BOARD; PROVIDING FOR
INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT AND
REPEALER; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION AND SEVERABILITY;
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE (first reading/public hearing held
on October 13, 2021). Sponsored by City Commission
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — November 10, 2021 16
The above resolution was read by Assistant City Attorney Candice Cobb.
Commissioner Davis opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-B-2.
Ms. Dorothy Johnson of 13724 NW 22nd Place stated that she didn't recall the ordinance
proposed by Agenda Item 16-B-2 ever having been read a first time, noting that this was
the second reading for the item. Ms. Johnson said that if she was in error, she apologized
and said she is still in favor of it. She added that she is trying to find the structure of how
the proposed Charter Review Board would be set up, acknowledging that it is very much
needed.
Commissioner Davis confirmed that the first reading for the ordinance proposed by Agenda
Item 16-B-2, was held on October 13, 2021.
Mr. Brian Dennis of 2140 York Street expressed his support for the ordinance proposed by
Agenda Item 16-B-2 and said that he thinks it would give the Commission the opportunity
to appoint those who know how to move the City forward by reviewing the Charter, but
also it would give the Commission the opportunity to be a part of it and become educated.
There being no additional members of the public to address the Commission,
Commissioner Davis closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-B-2.
It was moved by Commissioner Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Bass to discuss
Agenda Item 16-B-2.
Commissioner Davis thanked Commissioner Taylor for leading the Charter Review Board
effort. The Commissioner acknowledged that many of the processes within the City of
Opa-locka have been historically antiquated and updating the Charter will be one step to
put the City's best foot forward. He pointed out that the Charter is the City's lifeline and
basically its constitution, so they want to ensure that the practices outlined in the Charter
are fair and equitable.
There being no additional discussion, the ordinance proposed in Agenda Item 16-B-2
passed first reading by a 3-0 vote.
Vice Mayor Williams Not Present
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Mayor Pigatt Not Present
3. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF OPA-
LOCKA, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE ANNUAL ADOPTED GENERAL,
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — November 10, 2021 17
PROPRIETARY AND SPECIAL REVENUE FUNDS BUDGETS FOR THE
FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING OCTOBER 1, 2020 AND ENDING
SEPTEMBER 30, 2021, ADJUSTING REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES
AS REFLECTED IN EXHIBIT "A"; PROVIDING FOR THE
EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS ESTABLISHED BY THE BUDGET;
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO TAKE CERTAIN ACTIONS;
PROVIDING FOR APPROPRIATION OF ALL BUDGETS AND
EXPENDITURES; PROVIDING FOR FEES CONSISTENT WITH
APPROPRIATIONS AND AMENDMENT; PROVIDING FOR
INCORPORATION OF RECITALS; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT AND
REPEALER; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE (first reading/public hearing held on October 27, 2021).
Sponsored by City Manager
The above resolution was read by Assistant City Attorney Candice Cobb.
Commissioner Davis opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item 16-B-3.
There being no members of the public to address the Commission on Agenda Item 16-B-
3, Commissioner Davis closed the Public Hearing.
It was moved by Commissioner Bass, seconded by Commissioner Taylor to discuss
Agenda Item 16-B-3.
There being no discussion, the ordinance proposed in Agenda Item 16-B-3 passed by a 3-
0 vote.
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Not Present
Mayor Pigatt Not Present
C. RESOLUTION(S)/PUBLIC HEARING:
There were none.
17. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT:
Commissioner Davis asked City Manager Pate to deliver a report to the Commission.
City Manager Pate reported that the Human Resources Department facilitated an on -site breast
cancer workshop, an extended learning information session with Nova Southeastern University
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — November 10, 2021 18
and a wellness event. The City Manager shared that he has been continuously meeting with
residents and business owners regarding their concerns and getting their feedback on what they
would like to see in their City, to know how to best navigate in moving the City forward. Thanking
the Commission for approving the legislation to move forward with the retesting of pump stations
4, 5 and 7, as well as the testing of pump station 8, he informed them that if the testing is passed,
it will remove the pump stations from moratorium and provide for commerce. He stated that
additional blue external water sampling stations may be installed throughout the community to
make drinking water readily available for testing without going into private homes for sampling.
Mr. Pate also shared that the City is in receipt of $3,978,531 of the City's first 2 payments of its
allocation of the American Rescue Plan Act funds from the U.S. Treasury, adding that the City is
expected to receive a total of $7,957,062 by Spring of next year. He said that at the workshop that
was held on October 20, 2021, the Commission discussed the possible usage of such funds and
created an interest -bearing account to house those funds. In accordance with the Commission's
guidance, the design for the Miami Gardens service line project using these funds is underway.
City Manager Pate also said that an initial assessment has been received to fully restore the Sesame
Street bridge and that a request will be provided to the Commission for consideration at the Special
Commission Meeting scheduled for November 17, 2021.
18. OFFICIAL BOARD REPORTS:
There were none.
19. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS:
There were none.
20. MAYOR/COMMISSION REPORTS:
Commissioner Bass thanked everyone who came out to support the Bibles Up & Guns Down
event, including those on the residents panel, as well as the Police Department, City Staff including
Mr. Rady Grice and her colleagues. The Commissioner also thanked those who came out to
support the Farm Share feeding, which she said was also very successful.
Commissioner Davis thanked Commissioner Bass for leading the Bibles Up & Guns Down event,
lamenting that he was unable to attend the event, but sharing that he heard all the great news. The
Commissioner acknowledged that the City has put forth maximum effort to solving violence, and
he thanked Commissioner Bass for encouraging the community to be inspired by faith as opposed
to the more troubling behaviors in the community.
Commissioner Taylor echoed Commissioner Davis' sentiments, thanking Commissioner Bass for
a great event and all she has done to try to curtail the violence in the City.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — November 10, 2021 19
Commissioner Bass invited everyone to the Night of Thanksgiving on Friday the 19th of this
month at 7:00 PM. The Commissioner explained that it is going to be a night of praise, worship,
dance and just giving thanks.
Commissioner Davis encouraged the community to come out and enjoy a fun family day during
the community turkey distribution on November 20th from noon to 4 PM at Sherbondy Park. The
Commissioner shared those 500 turkeys will be given out to Opa-locka residents, and that some
of the sponsors included 103.5 The Beat, Foot Locker, Big Al, Simply Healthcare and Miami -
Dade County. He added that he will be co -hosting the event with Papa Keith from 103.5 The Beat.
21. OFFICIAL BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
There were none.
22. ADJOURNMENT:
City Clerk Flores noted that the next Commission Meeting would be scheduled on the day before
Thanksgiving, and she reminded the Commission that normally the 2nd meeting in November and
December are cancelled. The Clerk asked what the will of the Commission was due to the
holidays.
City Manager Pate stated that there were no issues from the Manager's Office because he said that
if there is anything time sensitive, they can have those items on the agenda at the Special
Commission Meeting which City Clerk Flores scheduled on the 17th.
It was moved by Commissioner Bass to suspend the second Regular Commission Meetings in the
months of November and December, and the motion was seconded by Commissioner Taylor.
There being no discussion, the motion passed by a 3-0 vote.
Commissioner Taylor Yes
Commissioner Bass Yes
Commissioner Davis Yes
Vice Mayor Williams Not Present
Mayor Pigatt Not Present
There being no further business to come before the City Commission, it was moved by
Commissioner Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Davis to adjourn the meeting at 8:19 p.m.
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — November 10, 2021 20
eronica J. Williams
Mayor
Attest:
anna Flores, CMC
ity Clerk
Regular Commission Meeting Minutes — November 10, 2021 21